If you’ve just found out that a friend or family member has been arrested, one of the first things you’re probably wondering is, “How much is bail going to cost me?” It’s a fair question — and the answer depends on a few key things like the charge, the county, and whether you’re working with a licensed bail bondsman like A+ Bail Bonds.
In this post, we’ll break down how bail is set, what you’re actually required to pay, and how to make it affordable — even if money’s tight.
What Is Bail and Who Sets It?
Bail is a set amount of money that acts as a guarantee someone will return to court after being released from jail. Once someone is arrested, a judge or magistrate looks at the charges and decides how much bail is appropriate based on the crime, criminal history, flight risk, and other factors.
In California, most counties follow a standard bail schedule, which means certain charges have preset bail amounts. For example, a DUI might be $5,000, while assault with a deadly weapon could be $50,000+.
Typical Bail Amounts in California (2025 Averages)
|
Charge |
Typical Bail Amount |
|
Misdemeanor DUI |
$2,500 – $5,000 |
|
Felony DUI |
$10,000 – $25,000 |
|
Domestic Violence |
$15,000 – $50,000 |
|
Drug Possession (Felony) |
$20,000 – $50,000 |
|
Burglary or Theft |
$25,000 – $50,000 |
|
Assault with Deadly Weapon |
$50,000 – $100,000+ |
|
Probation Violation |
$10,000 – $50,000 |
|
Firearm Charges |
$35,000 – $100,000+ |
How Much Do I Actually Pay for Bail?
You don’t need to pay the full bail amount out of pocket — unless you want to. Most people use a licensed bail bondsman, like A+ Bail Bonds, to cover the cost.
In California, bail agents charge a non-refundable premium of 10% of the total bail amount. This fee is set by law.
Example:
If the judge sets bail at $50,000, you’ll only pay $5,000 through a bail bonds service.
Can I Pay Less or Set Up Payments?
Yes. At A+ Bail Bonds, we work with all kinds of financial situations. We offer:
– 0% interest payment plans
– Low down payments
– No credit checks (for qualified signers)
– Flexible terms to match your budget
Are There Any Other Fees or Hidden Costs?
No. We believe in transparent, up-front pricing. The 10% premium is the industry standard and is the only charge you’ll pay us. The only additional costs might come from the court (like penalties for missed court dates), not from the bail bond itself.
What Happens If I Can’t Afford Bail at All?
If you’re in a tough spot financially, give us a call anyway. We’ve helped clients get their loved ones out with as little as a few hundred bucks down, depending on the charge and co-signer. We’ll go over every option and do everything possible to help.
Get Help Now – Bail Doesn’t Have to Break You
Bail can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right bail bond agent, the process is fast, affordable, and handled with care. Whether it’s Riverside County, Orange County, Los Angeles, or anywhere in Southern California, A+ Bail Bonds is here 24/7 to help.
Call now: (714) 845-8628
We’ll walk you through every step — no pressure, no judgment. Just real help, when you need it most.